In 2021, WSP committed to net-zero, supported by science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets, which had been approved by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi). We have now received approval for our net-zero target under the SBTi’s new Net-Zero Standard.
“As WSP continues on its ambitious decarbonization path through the approval of its net-zero target, we are pleased to play our part in urgent action to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees,” said Alexandre L’Heureux, WSP’s global President and CEO. “WSP is proud to be among the leading companies to achieve this approval, and we are well positioned to continue to drive sustainable growth as a core part of our business."
The latest climate science from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change - described by the UN as “code red for humanity” - shows that without immediate and deep emissions reductions across all sectors, limiting global warming to 1.5°C will be beyond reach.
WSP’s overall Net-Zero Target is as follows:
WSP commits to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2040 from a 2018 base year.
In support of reaching net-zero, WSP now has approved near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets with the SBTi:
Near-Term Target
As previously announced, WSP commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 (market-based) GHG emissions 60% by 2030 from a 2018 base year. WSP also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions 30% within the same timeframe.
Long-Term Target
WSP commits to reduce absolute scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions 90% by 2040 from a 2018 base year.
WSP will prioritize reductions in direct emissions, and all residual emissions will be neutralized in line with SBTi criteria to achieve net zero by 2040. WSP’s recently published Climate Transition Plan provides an overview of key strategies we will implement to achieve these targets as we collectively transition to a low-carbon future.
We can also have a significant impact beyond our own emissions reductions. By delivering Future Ready® designs and advice to our clients, we have an outsized impact on reducing their emissions and accompanying them on their own journey to net-zero.
WSP also actively participates in international efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy. WSP leaders will take part in the 27th annual session of the UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP27, which will take place in Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, in November this year.
For more information on Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) activities at WSP, please refer to our 2021 Global ESG Report: Positive and Bold Change Agents.